Acts 13:52 Filled with Joy

Acts 13:52 (KJV)  And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost. 

The disciples in the early church were filled with joy because they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Though there was great persecution, there was the movement of the Holy Spirit through the lives of Christ’s disciples to preach the gospel not perturbed by those who reject Christ.

Acts 13:50-51 (KJV)  But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts. But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium. 

Our Lord Himself taught His disciples in Matthew 10:14-15 (KJV)  And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.

The disciples rejoiced in the Lord and His grace bestowed upon them to further the work of Christ’s kingdom – Matthew 5:12 (KJV)  Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Amen.